Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department acquires watercraft with help of grant

The Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department, located at 9630 Telge Road, in Houston, has acquired a boat specially designed for swift-water rescues with the help of a $7,000 grant.

The department, which currently has 15 members who have been trained as swift-water rescue technicians, decided to take the extra precaution due Harris Country's proximity to the Golf of Mexico, which results in higher likelihoods of tropical storms and hurricanes, as well as seasonal flooding.

"This boat will allow us to respond to emergencies much more quickly, efficiently and safely," said Fire Chief Joe Davis in a press release. "The speed and stability of this type of boat can literally be the difference between life and death, both for people in trouble and for our firefighters."

The grant is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments and burn prevention organizations. Since 2004, Fireman's Fund has issued grants to nearly 1,800 different organizations totaling more than $28 million, according to a press release.

Area insurance agent Lisa Monita informed the fund of the department's needs.